The alpine windows along the rearward sides of the roof are not as noticeable as they were on the previous Discovery, but they're there, letting more light into the cabin and giving back-seat passengers a view of the Sequoias, mountains, or canyon walls towering above.
The LR3 is considerably larger than the previous Discovery. The 113.6-inch wheelbase is as long as that of a Ford Explorer, which provides room for three-row seating and better highway stability, particularly when towing.
The LR3 is built with what Land Rover calls integrated body-frame architecture, which combines hydroformed steel frame rails with a rigid monocoque body shell. Rubber mounts and dampers between the frame and body provide isolation from noise, vibration and harshness. Premium materials such as aluminum, magnesium, and high-tensile-strength alloy steel are used in key areas to save weight. Outer steel body panels are two-side galvanized to prevent corrosion. The two-piece tailgate is aluminum for ease of opening and closing. This approach accounts for much of the LR3's relatively light weight, crisp handling, and solid feel. Next Page